What is Twice Exceptionality (2e)?

Twice-exceptional (2e) children are those who possess high cognitive potential or advanced abilities (giftedness) while also having one or more disabilities, learning differences, or neurodiverse traits. These can include ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, anxiety, sensory processing challenges, or other conditions that may impact learning or behaviour. Essentially, 2e children have exceptional strengths alongside exceptional challenges, which can make their educational journey unique and complex.

How is 2e Defined and Identified?

Identifying twice-exceptionality requires a nuanced understanding of both giftedness and the presence of a disability. Common signs of 2e include:

Strengths: Advanced vocabulary, exceptional creativity, deep problem-solving skills, or a strong passion for specific topics.

Challenges: Difficulties with executive functioning, inconsistent academic performance, behavioural issues, social struggles, or emotional regulation challenges.

Assessment for 2e often involves psychoeducational testing, which can uncover both a child’s gifted potential and areas of difficulty. Unfortunately, the interplay between strengths and challenges can mask each other, leading to the child being misunderstood. For instance:

• High intelligence may compensate for learning struggles, leading to average performance rather than achievement at their true potential.
• Their disabilities may overshadow their strengths, resulting in a focus on remediation instead of enrichment.

Challenges in Having a 2e Child's Needs Met

The traditional education system often focuses on "fixing" perceived deficiencies rather than nurturing strengths, leading to frustration for both parents and children. Challenges include:

• Misunderstood Behaviours: Educators may interpret a 2e child’s meltdowns, inattention, or resistance as defiance or lack of motivation, rather than as signs of underlying needs.
• Focus on Weaknesses: Schools may allocate significant resources to remediate areas of difficulty (e.g., literacy interventions) while neglecting to provide opportunities for intellectual stimulation or talent development.
• Rigid Structures: Standardised approaches to learning can fail to accommodate the asynchronous development typical in 2e children, where their intellectual and emotional development may be out of sync.

These challenges can leave 2e children bored, disengaged, or emotionally distressed, which further impacts their learning and well-being.

Recommendations for Parents Navigating Conversations with Schools

1. Focus on a Strength-Based Approach: Advocate for identifying and nurturing your child’s strengths and talents alongside addressing their challenges. Emphasise the need for differentiation that engages their giftedness while supporting their areas of need.

2. Share Documentation: Provide schools with any formal assessments or diagnoses that clarify your child’s twice-exceptionality. Highlight recommendations from psychologists or specialists regarding strategies that work for your child.

3. Collaborate on an Individualised Plan: Work with the school to create an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) or similar framework that addresses both enrichment opportunities and accommodations for disabilities. Advocate for input from both gifted education specialists and learning support staff.

4. Educate the Educators: Many teachers are unfamiliar with 2e, so it may be helpful to share resources, articles, or frameworks for supporting twice-exceptional students. Reassure them that with the right approach, your child’s unique needs can be met.

5. Maintain a Collaborative Tone: Approach conversations with curiosity and partnership rather than confrontation. Use phrases like "How can we work together to support my child’s learning strengths and challenges?" to build trust and encourage productive dialogue.

6. Regular Reviews: Ensure that progress is regularly reviewed and adjustments are made to your child’s plan as their needs evolve. Celebrate successes, no matter how small, and build a positive narrative around your child’s growth.

By fostering open communication and building a shared understanding of 2e, parents and educators can create an environment where a twice-exceptional child’s potential is unlocked, allowing them to thrive both academically and emotionally.